Barranco de Masca (Masca Gorge)

One of the most dramatic and famous hiking routes in the Canary Islands — the Barranco de Masca descends through a deep volcanic ravine from the remote hamlet of Masca (650 meters above sea level) to the Atlantic Ocean at Masca Beach, a journey through one of the oldest and most geologically spectacular landscapes on Tenerife. The hamlet of Masca itself, tucked into the jagged peaks of the Teno Massif, is a destination in its own right — a cluster of traditional Canarian houses perched on impossibly steep slopes, accessible only via a winding mountain road that is one of the most hair-raising drives in Spain. The full trail descends approximately 600 meters over 4.5 km through a narrow ravine with towering 400-meter walls covered in endemic vegetation including cardones (Canarian spurge) and tabaibas, with a small stream running through the gorge in the wetter months. The trail ends at a pristine black sand beach accessible only by foot or boat — an extraordinarily rewarding destination after the demanding descent. Note: The full gorge trail from Masca to the beach has been subject to closures and access restrictions since 2018 due to safety works and environmental protection measures. As of 2025, the trail is partially open with a mandatory reservation system, capacity limits, and requirements for appropriate footwear and helmets (provided). The alternative — and always accessible — option is hiking the upper section of the gorge from the Masca viewpoint area (Mirador de Masca and the walking paths through the hamlet and upper barranco), which offers spectacular views without the full descent. Check the latest access status via the Cabildo de Tenerife website before visiting. The Mirador de Masca (viewpoint) at the top of the ravine offers a breathtaking panorama of the gorge, the hamlet, and the Atlantic beyond — a must-stop even if not hiking. Free access to the mirador; the full trail requires a permit (€10–15 when open). Best months: October–May (summer heat makes the gorge dangerous). A 1-hour drive from Costa Adeje via the TF-436 mountain road (not for nervous drivers). The Masca experience, even limited to the upper sections, is one of the defining memories of any Tenerife trip.